MON has backed John Carew to be on the goal trail this season. As everyone no doubt remembers, despite 3 months out injured, he managed 15 goals last season and the Villa boss said the Norwegian international can do even better this season....Looks to me that MON was never in the market for a new striker as he thinks what we have are enough? Full article and quotes: Balance Of Strikers Right - No Newbies Expected?

Mike Field: Martin O'Neill has continued to praise James Milner for his England performance and has revealed he's just as committed in training. The manager described the 'move' that led to England's second goal as a piece of 'typical James'. Being brave and sticking his head in where it could hurt to ensure he gains the ball. 'He would not flinch from the move that led to the second goal. I'm hoping it will be a big year for him.' Full article: More Monny Praise For Milly

Steve Wade: As the brand new season is all set to kick off, the consensus amongst the pundits, is that Villa will finish around seventh or eighth and as a genuflection towards the altar of optimism, I am going to boldly go for seventh, with Tottenham and Everton being in a position to look down on Villa, even if they are the usual million miles away from the big spenders. Something For The Weekend (247)

Mike Field: Emile Heskey has said Villa fans will see the best of him this year after a more than competent pre season campaign. Full quotes: Best Still To Come From Heskey

Mike Field: Martin O'Neill realises that we will have to be tighter in defence this season if we even hope to recreate last season's 6th place finish. Speaking on the official site ahead of Saturday's opener against Wigan, Monny promised that despite trying to be tighter in defence, we wouldn't be sacrificing our attacking play. He also admits, that given the losses of players over the summer, our 'strategy' may have to change somewhat. Full article: Monny Staying Positive

Mike Field: Even Martin O'Neill couldn't wait to praise Milly despite having subdued praise for Young. Speaking to SSN after England's 2-2 draw with Holland last night, Martin O'Neill was delighted by the impact that James Milner had on events when he replaced Ash on the left wing. 'I thought James did very well and made the goal brilliantly, so I am very pleased for him, while Emile caused a few problems before he came off.' Full article: Milner Steals Ash's Thunder

Vital Villa asked: As things stand, where will we finish next season? 38% predicted 7th-10th...bad. 21% voted for a consolidation of the last two seasons with a third 6th place win in a row. 16% were positive with a 5th place and 4% even more optimistic with 12% 10% must be expecting 5 top class signings in the next few weeks as they voted 1st, 2nd or 3rd. I'll have what they are on if I may nurse! The real pessi's are few and far between with just 1% saying 11th-17th and 2% 18th-20th...disaster 2% The same question was asked a month ago: Where Will Villa Finish And Should We Re-Focus?